News Release
Datacard® CardWizard® Issuance Software Selected by Associated Bank for Instant Issuance of Debit Cards
Largest Wisconsin-based Bank Provides Customers Optimum Service and Convenience, Which Ultimately Increases Debit Card Transactions and Usage Levels
MINNETONKA, Minn.—(Jan. 09, 2012)—Datacard Group, the world leader in secure ID and card personalization solutions, today announced that Associated Bank has selected Datacard® CardWizard® issuance software for its instant issue debit card program. Immediately after opening a new account customers leave the branch with a permanent, personalized and activated debit card that can be used right away.
Headquartered in Green Bay, Wis., Associated Bank has approximately 270 branch locations throughout Wisconsin, Illinois and Minnesota. They are currently working with Datacard Group on a phased implementation approach that will consist of rolling out the CardWizard software and associated hardware to 150 of its branches by March 2012.
For card production, Associated Bank is utilizing the Datacard® FCP 20/20 card printer, which delivers full-color, retransfer printing with over-the-edge coverage. The CardWizard software transfers all personalization data fully encrypted to the FCP 20/20 card printer which securely prints in high-definition color onto both sides of white blank card stock.
“With all the changes that are happening in today’s market, it’s important for financial institutions to strategically structure their debit card business so that they can stay profitable and successful,” said Val Glytas, senior vice president and director of retail payments at Associated Bank. “Instant issuance fits perfectly into our overall business strategy because it increases customer service levels and maximizes convenience. And, with immediate issuance and activation, it ultimately increases usage and transaction levels, which helps offset the change in interchange revenue we are all experiencing as a result of the Durbin Amendment.”
Instant issuance also strengthens debit card program security by eliminating the delay, costs and risks of sending cards through the mail. The CardWizard software—which is PCI PA-DSS compliant—interfaces with the bank’s core technology, which enables easy implementation for automated instant issue, PIN selection, rePIN and instant activation.
The CardWizard software is part of Datacard Group’s Secure Issuance Anywhere™ platform, which provides customers the flexibility to issue cards and credentials anytime, anywhere, with complete security. This integrated platform includes scalable and flexible hardware, software, supplies and global support–combining central issuance or instant issuance, as well as emerging mobile issuance into a single, integrated solution.
For more information, please visit www.instantissuance.com.
About Datacard Group
Datacard Group is building on a 40-year heritage of innovation and customer success. Our portfolio of solutions, backed by expert service and support, enable card and secure ID programs for financial, government and other markets worldwide. With an unmatched commitment to customer satisfaction, Datacard remains the industry’s leading brand of secure ID and card personalization solutions. www.datacard.com
About Associated Banc-Corp
Associated Banc-Corp (NASDAQ: ASBC) has total assets of $22 billion and is one of the top 50 financial services holding companies operating in the United States. Headquartered in Green Bay, Wis., Associated has approximately 270 banking locations serving more than 150 communities throughout Wisconsin, Illinois and Minnesota. The company offers a full range of banking services and other financial products and services. Associated Bank, N.A. is a Member FDIC. More information about Associated Banc-Corp is available at www.associatedbank.com.
